Tectonic Archaeology
Subduction Zone Geology in Japan and its Archaeological Implications
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Archaeopress
Published:29th Dec '22
Should be back in stock very soon
The effects of tectonic processes on archaeological sites are evidenced by earthquake damage, volcanic eruptions, and tsunami destruction. However, these processes affect a far broader sphere of landform structures, environment, and even climate that envelops an archaeological site and triggers human behavioural activities.
Tectonic processes derive directly or indirectly from Plate Tectonics and associated magmatic activity of the Earth’s mantle. This volume thus provides a primer on crucial subduction- and suprasubduction-zone processes due to Plate Tectonics, where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are generated. After a general survey of how tectonic effects are dealt with in geoarchaeology, Part I details how these processes are applied to understand the Japanese landmass’s development, from continental accretion to volcanic archipelago, as a world-standard example. A full glossary of geological terms is included for easy reference.
This is followed by detailed examinations of Japan’s tectonic archaeologies in Part II: TephroArchaeology, Earthquake Archaeology, and Tsunami Archaeology. Part III summarizes and critiques the authors’ own geoarchaeological fieldwork in Japan which was underwritten by a clear exposition of its geological and geomorphological background. Looking holistically at a locale and its development through geological time is fruitful in understanding the lay of the land, its resources, and its hazards that affect human occupation potential.
‘This volume is a most useful addition to a sparse literature. The retrospective is constructed to provide context for the geoarcheology of Japan extending from whole earth processes to site specifics, and in so doing enables comparison with the tectonic archaeology of other regions. Much of the summarized source material is otherwise difficult to find.’ – Eric Force, University of Arizona ;
‘The theme of tectonic archaeology is important and deserves a wide audience. Part I chapters are informed by a detailed and expert geological knowledge, with well-illustrated explanations of concepts, written in a style aimed at a non-expert readership and with an eye to their archaeological relevance. Part II chapters are illustrated with a wealth of examples drawn from the archaeology and history of Japan. Part III illustrates the application of these principles to the author’s field investigations in the Nara Basin, and it serves as a detailed case study to round off the overall theme of the volume.’ – Geoff Bailey, University of York
‘Tectonic Archaeology successfully collates a highly useful body of reference material on the mechanics and broad archaeological implications of the geological processes characterising subduction zones. Whilst focused on Japan, the book has clear comparative value for similar regions across the globe.’ – David K. Kay (2024): Geoscientist
ISBN: 9781803273990
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 1804g
554 pages